Combat ready Praetorian Karax in defensive stance
The Praetorian Karax are shield-bearing praetorians noted for their imposing phalanxes and they drill extensively to master all manner of impenetrable defensive formations. At a single command from their dakar, a karax unit can create the renowned xenka formation to protect them from explosive blasts. Shrapnel and fire wash harmlessly over the shields and leave the bearers intact. Swordsmen marching behind a karax line can advance resolutely into the face of even of the most earth-shuddering artillery barrage.[1]
The first Praetorian karax cohort was depolyed during the ancient War of the Exalted by House Kalvat as part against Dominar Helzar, who used an imposing array of incendiary projectiles that were hurled deep into enemy ranks. In a key battle of this war, an assembled karax force advanced against this battery and with shields raised endured blasts that would have annihilated any other force. The karax won the day, and their martial tradition has carried on. Some skorne believe advancement to the highest ranks is more difficult for these soldiers than for others in the army, as their grueling training greatly diminishes their individual initiative. Even so, none dispute the remarkable ability of the Praetorian karax to advance unharmed in an unbroken line into the most incinerating chaos.[1]